Ghantasala (musician): Difference between revisions

What links here Related changes Page information Get shortened URL
Created by WikiDwarfBOT
Last edited February 7, 2026
VisualWikitext
WikiDwarfBOT (talk | contribs)
Bots, trusted
8,493 edits
robot: add new article
 
m minor fix references per sources and corrected details per standard format
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|Indian musician}}
{{short description|Indian musician}}
{{fanpov|date=May 2018}}
{{fan POV|date=May 2018}}
{{EngvarB|date=September 2013}}
{{EngvarB|date=September 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2022}}
Line 9: Line 9:
| image_size      = 245px
| image_size      = 245px
| caption          = Ghantasala on a 2003 stamp of India
| caption          = Ghantasala on a 2003 stamp of India
| birth_name      = Ghantasala Venkateswararao
| birth_name      = Ghantasala Venkateswarrarao
| birth_date      = {{Birth date|df=yes|1922|12|4}}
| birth_date      = {{Birth date|df=yes|1922|12|4}}
| birth_place      = [[Choutapalli]], [[Krishna District]], [[Andhra Pradesh]]
| birth_place      = [[Chowtapalli]], [[Krishna District]], [[Andhra Pradesh]], India
| origin          =  
| origin          =  
| death_date      = {{Death date and age|df=yes|1974|2|11|1922|12|4}}
| death_date      = {{Death date and age|df=yes|1974|2|11|1922|12|4}}
| death_place      = [[Madras]], Tamil Nadu, India
| death_place      = [[Madras]], [[Tamil Nadu]], India
| genre            = [[Film music]] ([[playback singer|playback singing]]), [[Indian classical music]]
| genre            = [[Film music]] ([[playback singer|playback singing]]), [[Indian classical music]]
| occupations      = Singer, composer
| occupations      = Singer, composer
| years_active    = 1942–1974
| years_active    = 1922–1974
| spouse          = Savitri and Sarla Devi
| spouse          = Savitri and Sarala Devi
| website          = {{URL|http://www.ghantasala.info/}}
| website          = {{URL|http://www.ghantasala.info/}}
}}
}}
'''Ghantasala Venkateswararao''' (4 December 1922 – 11 February 1974), known [[mononymously]] by his [[surname]] as '''Ghantasala''', was an Indian [[Playback Singer|playback singer]] and [[Film score|film composer]] known for his works predominantly in [[Telugu cinema|Telugu]] and [[Kannada cinema]] and also in [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Malayalam]], [[Tulu language|Tulu]] and [[Hindi]] language films. He is considered as one of the greatest singers of Telugu cinema.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Akkineni Nageswara Rao interview |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/akkineni-nageswara-rao-interview/articleshow/19399459.cms |access-date=2022-10-01 |website=[[The Times of India]] |date=15 January 2017 |language=en |quote=And in came Ghantasala, who not only went on to become the voice of ANR melodies, but also one of the greatest singers Telugu cinema has seen.}}</ref> In 1970, he received the [[Padma Shri]] award, India's fourth highest civilian award for his contribution to [[Indian cinema]]. According to ''[[The Hindu]]'' and ''[[The Indian Express]]'', Ghantasala was 'such a divine talent and with his songs he could move the hearts of the people'. 'Ghantasala's blending of classical improvisations to the art of light music combined with his virtuosity and sensitivity puts him a class apart, above all others in the field of playback singing'.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/02/11/stories/2003021100450100.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031019232757/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/02/11/stories/2003021100450100.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 October 2003 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Honouring a legend |date=11 February 2003}}</ref><ref>K. Kumara Sekhar (14 February 1974) [http://www.ghantasala.info/theman/no_mere_singer.html No Mere Singer]. ''Indian Express''.</ref> Gifted with what Indian film historian [[V. A. K. Ranga Rao]] called 'the most majestic voice', Ghantasala helped Telugu film music develop its own distinct character which remains unparalleled. He is referred to as the 'Gaana Gandharva' for his mesmerising voice and musical skills.<ref name="andhrawishesh.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.andhrawishesh.com/home/Wishesh-Special/43468:gana-gandharva-ghantasala.html |title=Gana Gandharva Ghantasala |author=SriJa |work=Andhra Wishesh |publisher=Wishesh Digital Media |date=4 December 2013 |access-date=19 November 2014}}</ref>
'''Ghantasala Venkateswararao''' (4 December 1922 – 11 February 1974), known [[mononymously]] by his [[surname]] as '''Ghantasala''', was an Indian [[Playback Singer|playback singer]] and [[Film score|film composer]] known for his works predominantly in [[Telugu cinema|Telugu]] and [[Kannada cinema]] and also in [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Malayalam]], [[Tulu language|Tulu]] and [[Hindi]] language films. He is considered one of the greatest singers of Telugu and Indian cinema.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Akkineni Nageswara Rao interview |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/akkineni-nageswara-rao-interview/articleshow/19399459.cms |access-date=2022-10-01 |website=[[The Times of India]] |date=15 January 2017 |language=en |quote=And in came Ghantasala, who not only went on to become the voice of ANR melodies, but also one of the greatest singers Telugu cinema has seen.}}</ref> In 1970, he received the [[Padma Shri]] award, India's fourth highest civilian award for his contribution to [[Indian cinema]]. According to ''[[The Hindu]]'' and ''[[The Indian Express]]'', Ghantasala was 'such a divine talent and with his songs he could move the hearts of the people'. 'Ghantasala's blending of classical improvisations to the art of light music combined with his virtuosity and sensitivity puts him a class apart, above all others in the field of playback singing'.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/02/11/stories/2003021100450100.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031019232757/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/02/11/stories/2003021100450100.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 October 2003 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Honouring a legend |date=11 February 2003}}</ref><ref>K. Kumara Sekhar (14 February 1974) [http://www.ghantasala.info/theman/no_mere_singer.html No Mere Singer]. ''Indian Express''.</ref> Gifted with what Indian film historian [[V. A. K. Ranga Rao]] called 'the most majestic voice', Ghantasala helped Telugu film music develop its own distinct character which remains unparalleled. He is referred to as the 'Gaana Gandharva' for his mesmerising voice and musical skills.<ref name="andhrawishesh.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.andhrawishesh.com/home/Wishesh-Special/43468:gana-gandharva-ghantasala.html |title=Gana Gandharva Ghantasala |author=SriJa |work=Andhra Wishesh |publisher=Wishesh Digital Media |date=4 December 2013 |access-date=19 November 2014}}</ref>


Ghantasala performed in the [[United States]], [[England]] and [[Germany]], and for the [[United Nations Organisation]]. The government of [[Andhra Pradesh]] marked the occasion of 25 years of his film career as ''Silver Jubilee Celebrations of Ghantasala'' in [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]] on 1 February 1970. More than 30,000 people attended the function held at the Lal Bahadur Stadium, Hyderabad.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ghantasala.info/pictures/from-kvr/18.html |title=Assorted Photographs |publisher=Ghantasala.info |date=1 February 1970 |access-date=30 December 2011}}</ref> Ghantasala continues to be popular. Statutes of his likeness have been installed across Andhra Pradesh. Every year, the anniversaries of his birth and death are celebrated in India and overseas.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indian-american.net/2010/12/rich-tributes-paid-to-ghantasala/ |title=Rich tributes paid to Ghantasala |publisher=Indian American |date=14 December 2010 |access-date=30 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324121159/http://indian-american.net/2010/12/rich-tributes-paid-to-ghantasala/ |archive-date=24 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://kiranextras.blogspot.com/2008/12/ghantasala-statues-across-state.html |title=kiranextras: Ghantasala statues across state |publisher=Kiranextras.blogspot.com |date=5 December 2008 |access-date=30 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="hindu.com">{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121103560300.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061212143501/http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121103560300.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 December 2006 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala's statue to adorn Guntur |date=11 December 2005}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/article929033.ece |location=Chennai, India |work=The Hindu |title=Ghantasala music fest today |date=3 December 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/article2884662.ece |title=NATIONAL / ANDHRA PRADESH: Statue of Ghantasala unveiled |work=The Hindu |date=12 February 2012 |access-date=17 February 2012 |location=Chennai, India}}</ref><ref>[https://archive.today/20130126041350/http://www.hindu.com/2011/02/19/stories/2011021963610500.htm Andhra Pradesh / Guntur News : Tributes paid to Ghantasala]. The Hindu (19 February 2011)</ref><ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/stage-set-for-ghantasala-fete/article3950525.ece Stage set for Ghantasala fete]. The Hindu (30 September 2012).</ref><ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/rich-tributes-paid-to-ghantasala/article6884451.ece Rich tributes paid to Ghantasala]. The Hindu (12 February 2015). Retrieved on 15 November 2018.</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/tribute-to-ghantasala/article25065440.ece |title=Tribute to Ghantasala |newspaper=The Hindu |date=28 September 2018}}</ref>
Ghantasala performed in the [[United States]], [[England]] and [[Germany]], and for the [[United Nations Organisation]]. The government of [[Andhra Pradesh]] marked the occasion of 25 years of his film career as ''Silver Jubilee Celebrations of Ghantasala'' in [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]] on 1 February 1970. More than 30,000 people attended the function held at the Lal Bahadur Stadium, Hyderabad.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ghantasala.info/pictures/from-kvr/18.html |title=Assorted Photographs |publisher=Ghantasala.info |date=1 February 1970 |access-date=30 December 2011}}</ref> Ghantasala continues to be popular. Statutes of his likeness have been installed across Andhra Pradesh. Every year, the anniversaries of his birth and death are celebrated in India and overseas.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indian-american.net/2010/12/rich-tributes-paid-to-ghantasala/ |title=Rich tributes paid to Ghantasala |publisher=Indian American |date=14 December 2010 |access-date=30 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324121159/http://indian-american.net/2010/12/rich-tributes-paid-to-ghantasala/ |archive-date=24 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://kiranextras.blogspot.com/2008/12/ghantasala-statues-across-state.html |title=kiranextras: Ghantasala statues across state |publisher=Kiranextras.blogspot.com |date=5 December 2008 |access-date=30 December 2011}}</ref><ref name="hindu.com">{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121103560300.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061212143501/http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121103560300.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 December 2006 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala's statue to adorn Guntur |date=11 December 2005}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/article929033.ece |location=Chennai, India |work=The Hindu |title=Ghantasala music fest today |date=3 December 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/article2884662.ece |title=NATIONAL / ANDHRA PRADESH: Statue of Ghantasala unveiled |work=The Hindu |date=12 February 2012 |access-date=17 February 2012 |location=Chennai, India}}</ref><ref>[https://archive.today/20130126041350/http://www.hindu.com/2011/02/19/stories/2011021963610500.htm Andhra Pradesh / Guntur News : Tributes paid to Ghantasala]. The Hindu (19 February 2011)</ref><ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/stage-set-for-ghantasala-fete/article3950525.ece Stage set for Ghantasala fete]. The Hindu (30 September 2012).</ref><ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/rich-tributes-paid-to-ghantasala/article6884451.ece Rich tributes paid to Ghantasala]. The Hindu (12 February 2015). Retrieved on 15 November 2018.</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/tribute-to-ghantasala/article25065440.ece |title=Tribute to Ghantasala |newspaper=The Hindu |date=28 September 2018}}</ref>


==Early life==
==Early life==
Ghantasala was born in 1922 into a [[Telugu language|Telugu]] Brahmin family of Ghantasala Soorayya, a professional singer in [[Chowtapalli]], a village in [[Gudivada]] taluk of [[Krishna District]].<ref name="andhrawishesh.com" /> During his childhood, Ghantasala used to dance to his father's Tharangams. His father died when Ghantasala was a child, and he was brought up by his maternal uncle. He took formal music training from [[Patrayani Sitarama Sastry]], and joined [[Maharajah's Government College of Music and Dance]] in [[Vizianagaram|Vijayanagram]].<ref>V.A.K Ranga Rao. [http://www.ghantasala.info/theman/ghantasala-vak-rao.html Ghantasala (1922–1974)]. From the book ''Mee Ghantasala''.</ref>
Ghantasala was born in 1922 into a [[Telugu language|Telugu]] Brahmin family of Ghantasala Soorayya, a professional singer in [[Chowtapalli]], a village in [[Gudivada]] taluk of [[Krishna District]].<ref name="andhrawishesh.com" /> But his ancestral native place was tekupalli village, mopidevi mandal , krishna district which falls under [[diviseema]].<ref> [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HLTYnpg-KI]. Ghantasala Biography from Youtube.com. Retrieved on 2026-01-09. </ref> During his childhood, Ghantasala used to dance to his father's Tharangams. His father died when Ghantasala was a child, and he was brought up by his maternal uncle. He took formal music training from [[Patrayani Sitarama Sastry]], and joined [[Maharajah's Government College of Music and Dance]] in [[Vizianagaram|Vijayanagram]].<ref>V.A.K Ranga Rao. [http://www.ghantasala.info/theman/ghantasala-vak-rao.html Ghantasala (1922–1974)]. From the book ''Mee Ghantasala''.</ref>


==Career==
==Career==
Ghantasala participated in the [[Quit India Movement]] of 1942, for which he was arrested and imprisoned for 18 months at the Alipore (Allipura) Jail, [[Ballari]].<ref name="DH_Jail">P Satyanarayana Rao (26 April 2010) [http://www.deccanherald.com/content/66042/this-jailhouse-has-rich-past.html This jailhouse has a rich past]. ''Deccan Herald''</ref> After leaving jail, he met [[Samudrala Sr.]], who advised him to try his luck in the film industry as a singer.<ref>[https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0710550/bio Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao]. IMDb</ref> Ghantasala married Savitri, who lived in a village called [[Pedapulivarru]]. In that village, Ghantasala met lyricist [[Samudrala Sr.]], who was impressed with his voice and inducted him into the Madras film industry. Before Ghantasala found fame, he was already an accomplished [[Carnatic music]] singer.
Ghantasala participated in the [[Quit India Movement]] of 1942, for which he was arrested and imprisoned for 18 months at the Alipore (Allipura) Jail, [[Ballari]].<ref name="DH_Jail">P Satyanarayana Rao (26 April 2010) [http://www.deccanherald.com/content/66042/this-jailhouse-has-rich-past.html This jailhouse has a rich past]. ''Deccan Herald''</ref> After leaving jail, he met [[Samudrala Sr.]], who advised him to try his luck in the film industry as a singer.<ref>[https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0710550/bio Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao]. IMDb</ref> Ghantasala married Savitri, who lived in a village called [[Pedapulivarru]]. In that village, Ghantasala met lyricist [[Samudrala Sr.]], who was impressed with his voice and inducted him into the Madras film industry. Before Ghantasala found fame, he was already an accomplished [[Carnatic music]] singer.


Ghantasala's first break as a singer came from [[All India Radio]]. Later on, Peketi Siva Ram from HMV studios recorded Ghantasala's private songs. Ghantasala debuted as a chorus singer and for a character role in ''[[Seeta Rama Jananam]]'' by Pratibha Films. After this, he worked with well-known music directors ''Gali Penchala'' and [[C. R. Subbaraman]]. Ghantasala's first film as a music director was ''Laxmamma''. He introduced the technique of changing the vocal pitch and diction to suit the actor singing the songs. Ghantasala was peerless at Padyam renderings and his way with the Telugu padyam was incomparable.
Ghantasala's first break as a singer came from [[All India Radio]]. Later on, Peketi Siva Ram from the [[Saregama|His Master's Voice]] studios recorded Ghantasala's private songs. Ghantasala debuted as a chorus singer and for a character role in ''[[Seeta Rama Jananam]]'' by Pratibha Films. After this, he worked with well-known music directors ''Gali Penchala'' and [[C. R. Subbaraman]]. Ghantasala's first film as a music director was ''Laxmamma''. He introduced the technique of changing the vocal pitch and diction to suit the actor singing the songs. Ghantasala was peerless at Padyam renderings and his way with the Telugu padyam was incomparable.


Producer [[Chittajallu Krishnaveni]] gave Ghantasala his first job as full-time music director for her film ''[[Mana Desam]]'', which was [[N. T. Rama Rao]]'s first film. It established Ghantasala as a music composer-cum-playback singer. He was the most prolific film composer and playback singer in Telugu cinema until the mid-1970s. He composed music for many popular Telugu movies, including ''[[Patala Bhairavi]]'', ''[[Mayabazar]]'', ''[[Lava Kusa]]'', ''[[Pandava Vanavasam]]'', ''[[Rahasyam (1967 film)|Rahasyam]]'', ''[[Gundamma Katha]]'', ''[[Paramanandayya Shishyula Katha]]'' and ''[[Pelli Chesi Chudu]]'', and also for popular Tamil and Kannada films in the 1950s and 1960s. Ghantasala sang for and directed the music for a Hindi film ''Jhandaa ooncha Rahe Hamara'' (1964).<ref name="merinews.com">[http://www.merinews.com/article/homage-to-ghantasala/15789958.shtml Homage to Ghantasala]. Merinews.com (4 December 2009).</ref> The song "Siva Sankari" from the film [[Jagadeka Veeruni Katha]] (1961) believed to be one of the most challenging songs from classical hindusthani and carnatic style was sung by Ghantasala in a single take.<ref name="merinews.com"/>
Producer [[Chittajallu Krishnaveni]] gave Ghantasala his first job as full-time music director for her film ''[[Mana Desam]]'', which was [[N. T. Rama Rao]]'s first film. It established Ghantasala as a music composer-cum-playback singer. He was the most prolific film composer and playback singer in Telugu cinema until the mid-1970s. He composed music for many popular Telugu movies, including ''[[Patala Bhairavi]]'', ''[[Mayabazar]]'', ''[[Lava Kusa (1963 film)|Lava Kusa]]'', ''[[Pandava Vanavasam]]'', ''[[Rahasyam (1967 film)|Rahasyam]]'', ''[[Gundamma Katha]]'', ''[[Paramanandayya Shishyula Katha]]'' and ''[[Pelli Chesi Chudu]]'', and also for popular Tamil and Kannada films in the 1950s and 1960s. Ghantasala sang for and directed the music for a Hindi film ''Jhandaa ooncha Rahe Hamara'' (1964).<ref name="merinews.com">[http://www.merinews.com/article/homage-to-ghantasala/15789958.shtml Homage to Ghantasala] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181217154647/http://www.merinews.com/article/homage-to-ghantasala/15789958.shtml |date=17 December 2018 }}. Merinews.com (4 December 2009).</ref> The song "Siva Sankari" from the film ''[[Jagadeka Veeruni Katha]]'' (1961) believed to be one of the most challenging songs from classical Hindusthani and carnatic style was sung by Ghantasala in a single take.<ref name="merinews.com"/>
<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.8pmnews.com/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |title=Ghantasala Biography |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131212020215/http://www.8pmnews.com/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |archive-date=12 December 2013 |work=8PM News |date=11 February 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sakshi.com/news/movies/ghantasala-venkateswara-rao-mesmerize-mohammad-rafi-85548 |title=మహమ్మద్ రఫీని విస్మయానికి గురి చేసిన ఘంటసాల పాట |date=4 December 2013}}</ref>
<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.8pmnews.com/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |title=Ghantasala Biography |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131212020215/http://www.8pmnews.com/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |archive-date=12 December 2013 |work=8PM News |date=11 February 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sakshi.com/news/movies/ghantasala-venkateswara-rao-mesmerize-mohammad-rafi-85548 |title=మహమ్మద్ రఫీని విస్మయానికి గురి చేసిన ఘంటసాల పాట |date=4 December 2013}}</ref>
<ref>[http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/2014-02-09/Ghantasala-%E2%80%98Music%E2%80%99-Story-85297 Ghantasala ‘Music’ Story]. Thehansindia.com (9 February 2014). Retrieved on 15 November 2018.</ref>
<ref>[http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/2014-02-09/Ghantasala-%E2%80%98Music%E2%80%99-Story-85297 Ghantasala ‘Music’ Story]. Thehansindia.com (9 February 2014). Retrieved on 15 November 2018.</ref>
Line 39: Line 39:


===Private recordings and Bhagavad Gita===
===Private recordings and Bhagavad Gita===
Ghantasala served as the ''Aaasthana Gaayaka'' (court musician) for the [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]]. He recorded private albums, including [[Bhagawad Gita]], Patriotic Songs, Padyalu{{mdash}}a unique genre of Telugu, singing the verses in dramatic style{{mdash}}[[Pushpa Vilapam]], Devotional and folk songs. His recording of "Bhagawad Gita", which he directed and sang, can now be heard daily in the Tirumala temple.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.8pmnews.com/index.php/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |title=Ghantasala Biography |publisher=8pmnews.com |date=11 February 2011 |access-date=30 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110526084934/http://www.8pmnews.com/index.php/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |archive-date=26 May 2011}}</ref> According to music director [[Pendyala Nageswara Rao]] and playback singer [[P. Susheela]],  "Ghantasala alone is the foremost among playback singers who had a full-fledged melodious powerful voice range which could accommodate in uniformity, all the three octaves in music quite comfortably".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.chimatamusic.com/articles/ghantasala_bio.php |title=Ghantasala's Biographical article ChimataMusic.com... A One-Stop for Melodious Telugu Songs!!! |publisher=Chimatamusic.com |access-date=30 December 2011}}</ref><ref>[http://www.ghantasala.info/theman/suseela.html gaana gaMdharvuDu]. Ghantasala.info</ref>
Ghantasala served as the ''Aaasthana Gaayaka'' (court musician) for the [[Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams]]. He recorded private albums, including [[Bhagawad Gita]], Patriotic Songs, Padyalu{{mdash}}a unique genre of Telugu, singing the verses in dramatic style{{mdash}}[[Pushpa Vilapam]], Devotional and folk songs. His recording of "Bhagawad Gita", which he directed and sang, can now be heard daily in the Tirumala temple.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.8pmnews.com/index.php/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |title=Ghantasala Biography |publisher=8pmnews.com |date=11 February 2011 |access-date=30 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110526084934/http://www.8pmnews.com/index.php/news/headlines/ghantasala-biography |archive-date=26 May 2011}}</ref> According to music director [[Pendyala Nageswara Rao]] and playback singer [[P. Susheela]],  "Ghantasala alone is the foremost among playback singers who had a full-fledged melodious powerful voice range which could accommodate in uniformity, all the three octaves in music quite comfortably".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.chimatamusic.com/articles/ghantasala_bio.php |title=Ghantasala's Biographical article ChimataMusic.com... A One-Stop for Melodious Telugu Songs!!! |publisher=Chimatamusic.com |access-date=30 December 2011 |archive-date=1 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120401085800/http://www.chimatamusic.com/articles/ghantasala_bio.php |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>[http://www.ghantasala.info/theman/suseela.html gaana gaMdharvuDu]. Ghantasala.info</ref>


Pendyala Nageswara Rao channelled Ghantasala's classical musical knowledge and skills in classical renditions and in Telugu films including siva sankari from film ''[[Jagadekaveeruni Katha]]'', [[Rasika Raja taguvaramu kama]] from film ''[[Jayabheri]]'', and [[Syamala Dandakam – Manikya Veena]] from film ''[[Mahakavi Kalidasu]]''. Pendyala said these renditions were recorded only in one take by Ghantasala.<ref>[http://www.eemaata.com/em/issues/199911/881.html ఈమాట » ఘంటసాల–బాలసుబ్రహ్మణ్యం]. Eemaata.com.</ref>
Pendyala Nageswara Rao channelled Ghantasala's classical musical knowledge and skills in classical renditions and in Telugu films including siva sankari from film ''[[Jagadekaveeruni Katha]]'', [[Rasika Raja taguvaramu kama]] from film ''[[Jayabheri]]'', and [[Syamala Dandakam – Manikya Veena]] from film ''[[Mahakavi Kalidasu]]''. Pendyala said these renditions were recorded only in one take by Ghantasala.<ref>[http://www.eemaata.com/em/issues/199911/881.html ఈమాట » ఘంటసాల–బాలసుబ్రహ్మణ్యం] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190721152604/https://eemaata.com/em/issues/199911/881.html |date=21 July 2019 }}. Eemaata.com.</ref>


==Death==
==Death==
Ghantasala died on 11 February 1974, two months after his 51st birthday, due to [[cardiac arrest]] at a hospital in Chennai. The last song he recorded was for a documentary – Bhadrachala Ramadasu Vaibhavam ( music by Master Venu ) from the hospital bed the day before his death.
Ghantasala died on 11 February 1974, two months after his 51st birthday, due to [[cardiac arrest]] at a hospital in Chennai. The last song he recorded was for a documentary – Bhadrachala Ramadasu Vaibhavam (music by Master Venu) from the hospital bed the day before his death.


==Legacy==
==Legacy==
The Indian government released a postage stamp and first day cover to celebrate Ghantasala's work on 11 February 2003. He is the first movie singer-composer of the south to be accorded this honour.<ref name="ReferenceA"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-07-22/did-you-know-/32788359_1_stamps-ghantasala-venkateswara-rao-composer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130613194230/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-07-22/did-you-know-/32788359_1_stamps-ghantasala-venkateswara-rao-composer |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 June 2013 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Ghantasala adorns stamps |date=22 July 2012}}</ref> The US Postal Department has released a postal stamp on Ghantasala on 6 October 2014. The postal stamp was jointly released by the North American Telugu Society (NATS) in collaboration with Telugu Literary and Cultural Association (TLCA) in New York.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cinejosh.com/telugu-news-gossip/36985/after-anr-ghantasala-gets-this-honour.html |title=After ANR, Ghantasala Gets This Honour |date=12 October 2014 |work=CineJosh}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.telugucommunitynews.com/nats-tlca-ghantasala-vibhavari/ |title=అలరించిన శరత్ చంద్ర 'ఘంటసాల గాన విభావరి' ***అమెరికాలో ఘంటసాల పోస్టల్ స్టాంపు విడుదల చేసిన నాట్స్ |work=Telugu Community News}}</ref>
The Indian government released a postage stamp and first day cover to celebrate Ghantasala's work on 11 February 2003. He is the first movie singer-composer of the south to be accorded this honour.<ref name="ReferenceA"/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/telugu/did-you-know-/Ghantasala-adorns-stamps/articleshow/15092894.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130613194230/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-07-22/did-you-know-/32788359_1_stamps-ghantasala-venkateswara-rao-composer |url-status=live |archive-date=13 June 2013 |work=[[The Times of India]] |title=Ghantasala adorns stamps |date=22 July 2012}}</ref> The US Postal Department has released a postal stamp on Ghantasala on 6 October 2014. The postal stamp was jointly released by the North American Telugu Society (NATS) in collaboration with Telugu Literary and Cultural Association (TLCA) in New York.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cinejosh.com/telugu-news-gossip/36985/after-anr-ghantasala-gets-this-honour.html |title=After ANR, Ghantasala Gets This Honour |date=12 October 2014 |work=CineJosh}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.telugucommunitynews.com/nats-tlca-ghantasala-vibhavari/ |title=అలరించిన శరత్ చంద్ర 'ఘంటసాల గాన విభావరి' ***అమెరికాలో ఘంటసాల పోస్టల్ స్టాంపు విడుదల చేసిన నాట్స్ |work=Telugu Community News |access-date=27 November 2014 |archive-date=29 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129062740/http://www.telugucommunitynews.com/nats-tlca-ghantasala-vibhavari/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
Various awards named after Ghantasala are given every year, including the "Ghantasala melody king award". Recipients of this award include playback singers [[Kattassery Joseph Yesudas|K J Yesudas]] and [[P Suseela]], and Indian Idol [[Sri Ramachandra]].<ref name="hindu.com"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2010/12/05/stories/2010120560720200.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101209021854/http://www.hindu.com/2010/12/05/stories/2010120560720200.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=9 December 2010 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala Melody King Award for 'Indian Idol' Sree Ramachandra |date=5 December 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/04/stories/2008120eeth460200500.htm |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala Awards for Susheela, Nagoor Babu |date=4 December 2008}} {{Dead link|date=April 2014|bot=RjwilmsiBot}}</ref> Ghantasala Arts Academy has instituted the "Ghantasala National Award"; the first winner was playback singer [[S. P. Balasubrahmanyam]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2011/04/15/stories/2011041554220500.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109220213/http://www.hindu.com/2011/04/15/stories/2011041554220500.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=9 November 2012 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala national award presented to Balu |date=15 April 2011}}</ref>
Various awards named after Ghantasala are given every year, including the "Ghantasala melody king award". Recipients of this award include playback singers [[Kattassery Joseph Yesudas|K J Yesudas]] and [[P Suseela]], and Indian Idol [[Sri Ramachandra]].<ref name="hindu.com"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2010/12/05/stories/2010120560720200.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101209021854/http://www.hindu.com/2010/12/05/stories/2010120560720200.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=9 December 2010 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala Melody King Award for 'Indian Idol' Sree Ramachandra |date=5 December 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/12/04/stories/2008120eeth460200500.htm |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala Awards for Susheela, Nagoor Babu |date=4 December 2008}} {{Dead link|date=April 2014|bot=RjwilmsiBot}}</ref> Ghantasala Arts Academy has instituted the "Ghantasala National Award"; the first winner was playback singer [[S. P. Balasubrahmanyam]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2011/04/15/stories/2011041554220500.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109220213/http://www.hindu.com/2011/04/15/stories/2011041554220500.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=9 November 2012 |location=Chennai, India |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Ghantasala national award presented to Balu |date=15 April 2011}}</ref>


Line 64: Line 64:


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Ghantasala Venkateswararao was married to Savitri and (Late) Sarala Devi. He was blessed with 8 children: 4 Daughters (Meera, Shyamala, Suguna, Shanthi) and 4 Sons (Vijayakumar, Ravikumar, Shankarkumar, Ratnakumar). Shyamala, Suguna, Shanthi, Vijayakumar and Ratnakumar are born to Savtri and Meera, Ravikumar and Shankar Kumar are born to Sarla Devi.
Ghantasala Venkateswararao was married to Savitri and (Late) Sarala Devi. He had eight children: four daughters (Meera, Shyamala, Suguna, Shanthi) and four sons (Vijayakumar, Ravikumar, Shankarkumar, Ratnakumar). Shyamala, Suguna, Shanthi, Vijayakumar and Ratnakumar were born to Savtri and while Meera, Ravikumar and Shankar Kumar were born to Sarla Devi.


It is said that Ghantasala named his eldest son "Vijaya" Kumar after Vijaya Productions out of gratitude towards the organization that employed him as a permanent artiste. Sri Chakrapani, one of then producers of Vijaya Productions, presented Ghantasala a purse with Rs. 25,000 realising his respect towards the organization. 10 years after his death, his youngest son Ratnakumar went on to become a popular dubbing artist.
It is said that Ghantasala named his eldest son "Vijaya" Kumar after Vijaya Productions out of gratitude towards the organization that employed him as a permanent artiste. Sri Chakrapani, one of the producers of Vijaya Productions, presented Ghantasala with a purse with Rs. 25,000 realising his respect towards the organization. 10 years after his death, his youngest son Ratnakumar went on to become a popular dubbing artist.


==Filmography==
==Filmography==
* Tyagayya (1946)
* ''Tyagayya'' (1946)
* Anarkali (1955)
* ''Anarkali'' (1955)
* Sri Venkateswara Mahatyam (1960) Sathya harichndra(Kannada)
* ''Sri Venkateswara Mahatyam'' (1960)
* Sathya harichndra (Kannada)


==Playback singer and music director==
==Playback singer and music director==
Ghantasala composed Music for more than 110 films as stated by him, following is the list of 123 films for which he has composed Music. The list includes re-makes and dubbed films. Date of release of the Film also given. The list includes Tamil, Kannada, Hindi films besides Telugu films where he worked predominantly.
Ghantasala composed Music for more than 110 films as stated by him, following is the list of 124 films for which he has composed Music. The list includes remakes and dubbed films. The date of release of the film is also given. The list includes Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi films besides Telugu films where he worked predominantly.


{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
* ''[[Balaraju]]'', 26 Feb 1948
* ''[[Balaraju]]'', 26 Feb 1948 Co Music Directors [[Gali Penchala Narasimha Rao]] and [[C. R. Subbaraman]]
* ''[[Ratnamala (film)|Ratnamala]]'', 2 Jan 1948
* ''[[Ratnamala (film)|Ratnamala]]'', 2 Jan 1948 as a Co Music Director to CR Subbaraman
* ''[[keelugurram]]'', 19 Feb 1949
* ''[[keelugurram]]'', 19 Feb 1949
* ''[[Mayakkudirai, Maya Kudirai or Maya Kuthirai]]'', Tamil 1949
* ''[[Mayakkudirai, Maya Kudirai or Maya Kuthirai]]'', Tamil 1949
Line 86: Line 87:
* ''[[Vali Sugriva]]'', 19 Mar 1950
* ''[[Vali Sugriva]]'', 19 Mar 1950
* ''[[Shavukaru]]'', 7 April 1950
* ''[[Shavukaru]]'', 7 April 1950
* ''[[Swapna Sundari (film)|Swapna Sundari]]'', 9 Nov 1950
* ''[[Swapna Sundari (film)|Swapna Sundari]]'', 9 Nov 1950 Co Music Director CR Subbaraman
* ''[[Chandravanka]]'', 2 Feb 1951
* ''[[Swapna Sundari (film)|Swapna Sundari]]'', Tamil Dubbed Film Co Music Director CR Subbaraman
* ''[[చంద్రవంక (1951 సినిమా)]]'', 2 Feb 1951
* ''[[Nirdoshi (1951 film)|Nirabaradhi]]'', Tamil 1951
* ''[[Nirdoshi (1951 film)|Nirabaradhi]]'', Tamil 1951
* ''[[Nirdoshi (1951 film)|Nirdoshi]]'', 24 Feb 1951
* ''[[Nirdoshi (1951 film)|Nirdoshi]]'', 24 Feb 1951
Line 96: Line 98:
* ''[[Pelli Chesi Choodu]]'', 29 Feb 1952
* ''[[Pelli Chesi Choodu]]'', 29 Feb 1952
* ''[[Kalyanam Panni Paar]]'', 15 Aug 1952
* ''[[Kalyanam Panni Paar]]'', 15 Aug 1952
* ''[[Bratuku Teruvu]]'', 6 Feb 1953
* ''[[Bratuku Teruvu]]'', 6 Feb 1953 Co Music Director CR Subbaraman
* ''[[Rajeswari]]'', 7 June 1952
* ''[[Rajeswari]]'', 7 June 1952
* ''[[Bale Raman]]'', 1956
* ''[[Bale Raman]]'', 1956
Line 107: Line 109:
* ''[[Ellam Inba Mayam]]'', Tamil 1 Apr 1955
* ''[[Ellam Inba Mayam]]'', Tamil 1 Apr 1955
* ''[[Kanyasulkam]]'', 26 Aug 1955
* ''[[Kanyasulkam]]'', 26 Aug 1955
* ''[[Vadina Gari Gajulu]]'', 27 May 1955
* ''[[వదినగారి గాజులు (1955 సినిమా)]]'', 27 May 1955
* ''[[Guna Sundari]]'',  16 Dec 1955
* ''[[Guna Sundari]]'',  16 Dec 1955
* ''[[Kalvanin Kadhali (1955 film)|Kalvanin Kadhali]]'', 13 Nov 1955
* ''[[Kalvanin Kadhali (1955 film)|Kalvanin Kadhali]]'', 13 Nov 1955
Line 116: Line 118:
* ''[[Jayam Manade]]'', 4 May 1956
* ''[[Jayam Manade]]'', 4 May 1956
* ''[[Vetri Veeran]]'', 4 May 1956
* ''[[Vetri Veeran]]'', 4 May 1956
* ''[[Kanakatara]]'', 3 Mar 1956
* ''[[కనకతార]]'', 3 Mar 1956
* ''[[Sonta ooru]]'', 23 May 1956
* ''[[సొంతవూరు]]'', 23 May 1956 Ghantasala is also it's Producer
* ''[[Mayabazar]]'', 27 Mar 1957
* ''[[Mayabazar]]'', 27 Mar 1957
* ''[[Mayabazar]]'', Tamil 12 Apr 1957
* ''[[Mayabazar]]'', Tamil 12 Apr 1957
* ''[[Mayabazar]]'', Kannada Dubbed 1965
* ''[[Mayabazar]]'', Kannada Dubbed 1965
* ''[[Repu Neede]]'', 1 Feb 1957
* ''[[రేపు నీదే]]'', 1 Feb 1957
* ''[[Sarangadhara]]'', 1 Nov 1957
* ''[[Sarangadhara]]'', 1 Nov 1957
* ''[[Sati Anasuya]]'', 25th Octo 1957
* ''[[Sati Anasuya]]'', 25th Octo 1957
* ''[[Vinayaka Chaviti]]'', 22 Aug 1957
* ''[[Vinayaka Chaviti]]'', 22 Aug 1957
* ''[[Talavanchani Veerudu]]'', 6 Dec 1957
* ''[[తలవంచని వీరుడు]]'', 6 Dec 1957 Dubbed Film
* ''[[Manchi Manasuku Manchi Rojulu]]'', 15 Aug 1958
* ''[[Manchi Manasuku Manchi Rojulu]]'', 15 Aug 1958
* ''[[Parvati Kalyanam]]'', 26 Dec 1958
* ''[[పార్వతీ కళ్యాణం]]'', 26 Dec 1958
* ''[[Pellinaati Pramanalu]]'', 17 Dec 1958
* ''[[Pellinaati Pramanalu]]'', 17 Dec 1958
* ''[[Vazhkai Oppandam]]'', 4 Sep 1959
* ''[[Vazhkai Oppandam]]'', 4 Sep 1959
* ''[[Pelli Sandadi]]'',  2 April 1959
* ''[[Pelli Sandadi]]'',  2 April 1959
* ''[[Sabash Ramudu]]'', 4 Sep 1959
* ''[[Sabash Ramudu]]'', 4 Sep 1959
* ''[[Sabash Ramu]]'', Tamil Dubbed 4 Sep 1959
* ''[[Sabash Ramu,சபாஷ் ராமு]]'', Tamil Dubbed 4 Sep 1959
* ''[[Sati Sukanya]]'', 30 Jan 1959
* ''[[Sati Sukanya]]'', 30 Jan 1959
* ''[[Vinayaga Chaturthi]]'', Tamil 1959
* ''[[Vinayaga Chaturthi]]'', Tamil 1959
Line 153: Line 155:
* ''[[Bandipotu (1963 film)]]'', 15 Aug 1963
* ''[[Bandipotu (1963 film)]]'', 15 Aug 1963
* ''[[Veera Kesari]]'', Kannada 1963
* ''[[Veera Kesari]]'', Kannada 1963
* ''[[Lava Kusa]]'', 29 March 1963
* ''[[Lava Kusa (1963 film)|Lava Kusa]]'', 29 March 1963
* ''[[Lava Kusa]]'', Tamil 1963
* ''[[Lava Kusa (1963 film)|Lava Kusa]]'', Tamil 1963
* ''[[Lava Kusa]]'', Kannada Dubbed
* ''[[Lava Kusa (1963 film)|Lava Kusa]]'', Kannada Dubbed
* ''[[Lava Kusa]]'', Hindi Dubbed 1974
* ''[[Lava Kusa (1963 film)|Lava Kusa]]'', Hindi Dubbed 1974
* ''[[Valmiki]]'', 9 Feb 1963
* ''[[Valmiki]]'', 9 Feb 1963
* ''[[Valmiki]]'', Tamil 1963
* ''[[Valmiki]]'', Tamil 1963
Line 198: Line 200:
* ''[[Rama Rajyam]]'', 4 Apr 1973
* ''[[Rama Rajyam]]'', 4 Apr 1973
* ''[[Poola Maala]]'', 7 Dec 1973
* ''[[Poola Maala]]'', 7 Dec 1973
* ''[[Tulasi]]'', 23 May 1974
* ''[[Tulasi (1974 film)|Tulasi]]'', 23 May 1974
* ''[[Vasthade Maa baava]]'', 1977 along with his son Ghantasala Vijaya Kumar
* ''[[Vasthade Maa baava]]'', 1977 along with his son Ghantasala Vijaya Kumar
 
* ''[[Sati Savitri (1978 film)|Sati Savitri]]'', 3 January 1978 along with Pendyala


{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}


===Playback singer===
===Playback singer===
Ghantasala recorded songs as playback singer for the movies under popular composers – S Rajeswara Rao, Pendyala Nageswara Rao, M S Viswanathan, K V Mahadevan, Adi Narayana Rao, Master Venu, T V Raju, T Chalapathi Rao, S P Kodandapani, Shankar Jai Kishan, Susarla Dakshina Murthy, and Galipenchala Narasimha Rao among others.
Besides pictures where he is Music Director,  Ghantasala recorded songs as playback singer for the movies under popular composers –V Nagaiah, Ogirala RamachandraRao,  Galipenchala Narasimha Rao,  S Rajeswara Rao, Pendyala Nageswara Rao, Susarla Dakshina Murthy, CR Subburaman, Aswathama, P Suribabu, Adi Narayana Rao, Master Venu, T V Raju, R Sudharshanam, R Goverdhanam, M S Viswanathan, Ramamoorthy, K V Mahadevan,  T Chalapathi Rao, S P Kodandapani, GK Venkatesh, TG Lingappa, Shankar, Ganesh, Vedha, and Shankar Jai Kishan, among others.
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
{{div col|colwidth=30em}}
* ''[[Yasodha Krishna]]'' (1975)
* ''[[Yasodha Krishna]]'' (1975)
Line 311: Line 313:
* ''[[Pidugu Ramudu]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Pidugu Ramudu]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Sri Krishna Tulabharam]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Sri Krishna Tulabharam (1966 film)|Sri Krishna Tulabharam]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Mohini Bhasmasura]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Mohini Bhasmasura]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Adugu Jadalu]]'' (1966)
* ''[[Adugu Jadalu]]'' (1966)
Line 329: Line 331:
* ''[[Manchi Kutumbam]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Manchi Kutumbam]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Tene Manasulu]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Tene Manasulu]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Veera Abhimanyu]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Veera Abhimanyu (1965 film)|Veera Abhimanyu]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Uyyala Jampala]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Uyyala Jampala]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Sri Simhachala Kshetra Mahima]]'' (1965)
* ''[[Sri Simhachala Kshetra Mahima]]'' (1965)
Line 406: Line 408:
* ''[[Appu Chesi Pappu Koodu]]'' (1958)
* ''[[Appu Chesi Pappu Koodu]]'' (1958)
* ''[[Mangalya Balam]]'' (1958)
* ''[[Mangalya Balam]]'' (1958)
* ''[[Kathavarayan (1958 film)|Kathavarayan]]'' (1958)
* ''[[Bhookailas (1958 Telugu film)|Bhookailas]]'' (1958)
* ''[[Bhookailas (1958 Telugu film)|Bhookailas]]'' (1958)
* ''[[Veera Kankanam]]'' (1957)
* ''[[Veera Kankanam]]'' (1957)
Line 414: Line 417:
* ''[[M L A]]'' (1957)
* ''[[M L A]]'' (1957)
* ''[[Suvarna Sundari]]'' (1957)
* ''[[Suvarna Sundari]]'' (1957)
* ''[[Yar Paiyan]]'' (1957)
* ''[[Bhale Ramudu]]'' (1956)
* ''[[Bhale Ramudu]]'' (1956)
* ''[[Tenali Ramakrishna]]'' (1956)
* ''[[Tenali Ramakrishna]]'' (1956)
Line 439: Line 443:
* ''[[Laila Majnu]]'' (1949)
* ''[[Laila Majnu]]'' (1949)
* ''[[Raksharekha]]'' (1949)
* ''[[Raksharekha]]'' (1949)
* ''[[Paithiyakkaran]]'' (1947)
* ''[[Swarga Seema]]'' (1945)
* ''[[Swarga Seema]]'' (1945)
{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}
Line 457: Line 462:


==External links==
==External links==
 
{{Commons category|Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao}}
* [http://www.ghantasala.info/ Ghantasala's homepage]
* [http://www.ghantasala.info/ Ghantasala's homepage]
* [http://ghantasala.info/allsongs/ Ghantasaala Gaana Charita]
* [http://ghantasala.info/allsongs/ Ghantasaala Gaana Charita]
* [http://mio.to/album/Ghantasala/Hara+Hara+Sambho+-+Devotional+Songs+Of+Ghantasala+From+Telugu+Films Deva Mahadeva]
* [https://mio.to/album/Ghantasala/Hara+Hara+Sambho+-+Devotional+Songs+Of+Ghantasala+From+Telugu+Films Deva Mahadeva] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221003060832/https://mio.to/album/Ghantasala/Hara+Hara+Sambho+-+Devotional+Songs+Of+Ghantasala+From+Telugu+Films |date=3 October 2022 }}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}
* http://www.ghantasala.info/pictures/docs/gh-jail-cert.jpg
* http://www.ghantasala.info/pictures/docs/gh-jail-cert.jpg
Line 471: Line 476:
[[Category:Telugu film score composers]]
[[Category:Telugu film score composers]]
[[Category:Kannada film score composers]]
[[Category:Kannada film score composers]]
[[Category:Kannada playback singers]]
[[Category:Kannada-language playback singers]]
[[Category:Tamil film score composers]]
[[Category:Tamil film score composers]]
[[Category:People from Krishna district]]
[[Category:People from Krishna district]]
[[Category:Telugu playback singers]]
[[Category:Telugu-language playback singers]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian singers]]
[[Category:Singers from Andhra Pradesh]]
[[Category:Singers from Andhra Pradesh]]
[[Category:Indian male songwriters]]
[[Category:Indian male songwriters]]

Latest revision as of 03:11, 7 February 2026


Ghantasala
Ghantasala on a 2003 stamp of India
Ghantasala on a 2003 stamp of India
Background information
Birth nameGhantasala Venkateswarrarao
Born(1922-12-04)4 December 1922
Chowtapalli, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Died11 February 1974(1974-02-11) (aged 51)
Madras, Tamil Nadu, India
GenresFilm music (playback singing), Indian classical music
OccupationsSinger, composer
Years active1922–1974
Websitewww.ghantasala.info

Ghantasala Venkateswararao (4 December 1922 – 11 February 1974), known mononymously by his surname as Ghantasala, was an Indian playback singer and film composer known for his works predominantly in Telugu and Kannada cinema and also in Tamil, Malayalam, Tulu and Hindi language films. He is considered one of the greatest singers of Telugu and Indian cinema.[1] In 1970, he received the Padma Shri award, India's fourth highest civilian award for his contribution to Indian cinema. According to The Hindu and The Indian Express, Ghantasala was 'such a divine talent and with his songs he could move the hearts of the people'. 'Ghantasala's blending of classical improvisations to the art of light music combined with his virtuosity and sensitivity puts him a class apart, above all others in the field of playback singing'.[2][3] Gifted with what Indian film historian V. A. K. Ranga Rao called 'the most majestic voice', Ghantasala helped Telugu film music develop its own distinct character which remains unparalleled. He is referred to as the 'Gaana Gandharva' for his mesmerising voice and musical skills.[4]

Ghantasala performed in the United States, England and Germany, and for the United Nations Organisation. The government of Andhra Pradesh marked the occasion of 25 years of his film career as Silver Jubilee Celebrations of Ghantasala in Hyderabad on 1 February 1970. More than 30,000 people attended the function held at the Lal Bahadur Stadium, Hyderabad.[5] Ghantasala continues to be popular. Statutes of his likeness have been installed across Andhra Pradesh. Every year, the anniversaries of his birth and death are celebrated in India and overseas.[6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14]

Early life[edit | edit source]

Ghantasala was born in 1922 into a Telugu Brahmin family of Ghantasala Soorayya, a professional singer in Chowtapalli, a village in Gudivada taluk of Krishna District.[4] But his ancestral native place was tekupalli village, mopidevi mandal , krishna district which falls under diviseema.[15] During his childhood, Ghantasala used to dance to his father's Tharangams. His father died when Ghantasala was a child, and he was brought up by his maternal uncle. He took formal music training from Patrayani Sitarama Sastry, and joined Maharajah's Government College of Music and Dance in Vijayanagram.[16]

Career[edit | edit source]

Ghantasala participated in the Quit India Movement of 1942, for which he was arrested and imprisoned for 18 months at the Alipore (Allipura) Jail, Ballari.[17] After leaving jail, he met Samudrala Sr., who advised him to try his luck in the film industry as a singer.[18] Ghantasala married Savitri, who lived in a village called Pedapulivarru. In that village, Ghantasala met lyricist Samudrala Sr., who was impressed with his voice and inducted him into the Madras film industry. Before Ghantasala found fame, he was already an accomplished Carnatic music singer.

Ghantasala's first break as a singer came from All India Radio. Later on, Peketi Siva Ram from the His Master's Voice studios recorded Ghantasala's private songs. Ghantasala debuted as a chorus singer and for a character role in Seeta Rama Jananam by Pratibha Films. After this, he worked with well-known music directors Gali Penchala and C. R. Subbaraman. Ghantasala's first film as a music director was Laxmamma. He introduced the technique of changing the vocal pitch and diction to suit the actor singing the songs. Ghantasala was peerless at Padyam renderings and his way with the Telugu padyam was incomparable.

Producer Chittajallu Krishnaveni gave Ghantasala his first job as full-time music director for her film Mana Desam, which was N. T. Rama Rao's first film. It established Ghantasala as a music composer-cum-playback singer. He was the most prolific film composer and playback singer in Telugu cinema until the mid-1970s. He composed music for many popular Telugu movies, including Patala Bhairavi, Mayabazar, Lava Kusa, Pandava Vanavasam, Rahasyam, Gundamma Katha, Paramanandayya Shishyula Katha and Pelli Chesi Chudu, and also for popular Tamil and Kannada films in the 1950s and 1960s. Ghantasala sang for and directed the music for a Hindi film Jhandaa ooncha Rahe Hamara (1964).[19] The song "Siva Sankari" from the film Jagadeka Veeruni Katha (1961) believed to be one of the most challenging songs from classical Hindusthani and carnatic style was sung by Ghantasala in a single take.[19] [20][21] [22] [23]

Private recordings and Bhagavad Gita[edit | edit source]

Ghantasala served as the Aaasthana Gaayaka (court musician) for the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. He recorded private albums, including Bhagawad Gita, Patriotic Songs, Padyalu—a unique genre of Telugu, singing the verses in dramatic style—Pushpa Vilapam, Devotional and folk songs. His recording of "Bhagawad Gita", which he directed and sang, can now be heard daily in the Tirumala temple.[24] According to music director Pendyala Nageswara Rao and playback singer P. Susheela, "Ghantasala alone is the foremost among playback singers who had a full-fledged melodious powerful voice range which could accommodate in uniformity, all the three octaves in music quite comfortably".[25][26]

Pendyala Nageswara Rao channelled Ghantasala's classical musical knowledge and skills in classical renditions and in Telugu films including siva sankari from film Jagadekaveeruni Katha, Rasika Raja taguvaramu kama from film Jayabheri, and Syamala Dandakam – Manikya Veena from film Mahakavi Kalidasu. Pendyala said these renditions were recorded only in one take by Ghantasala.[27]

Death[edit | edit source]

Ghantasala died on 11 February 1974, two months after his 51st birthday, due to cardiac arrest at a hospital in Chennai. The last song he recorded was for a documentary – Bhadrachala Ramadasu Vaibhavam (music by Master Venu) from the hospital bed the day before his death.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The Indian government released a postage stamp and first day cover to celebrate Ghantasala's work on 11 February 2003. He is the first movie singer-composer of the south to be accorded this honour.[2][28] The US Postal Department has released a postal stamp on Ghantasala on 6 October 2014. The postal stamp was jointly released by the North American Telugu Society (NATS) in collaboration with Telugu Literary and Cultural Association (TLCA) in New York.[29][30] Various awards named after Ghantasala are given every year, including the "Ghantasala melody king award". Recipients of this award include playback singers K J Yesudas and P Suseela, and Indian Idol Sri Ramachandra.[8][31][32] Ghantasala Arts Academy has instituted the "Ghantasala National Award"; the first winner was playback singer S. P. Balasubrahmanyam.[33]

Awards[edit | edit source]

Ghantasala statue in Guntur

Ghantasala was honoured with the "Padmashri" by the Government of India.[34][35] He won the best playback singer award in Andhra Pradesh every year for nearly 30 years, a feat unachieved by any other playback singer.[4]

After the saint poet Annamacharya in the 15th century, Ghantasala has been the only singer to perform devotional songs inside the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple near the Lord Moola Virat.[4]

Tributes[edit | edit source]

"Kala Pradarshini Ghantasala Puraskar", the only award instituted directly by the Ghantasala Family curated by his second son Ravi Ghantasala and his wife, acclaimed dancer Parvathi Ravi Ghantasala, which aims to honor legends who have contributed to "Arts and Philanthropy". the Inaugural awards were presented to Dr.S.P.Balasubramanyam (music), Dr. Padma Subramaniam (Dance) and Dr. Nalli Kuppusamy Chetty (Philanthropy).

The Ghantasala Puraskar Award 2014, given every year by Sharan Incorporation, has been conferred on Rao Bala Saraswathi Devi, who was the first Telugu playback singer.[36] The Government music college in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, is named after Ghantasala.[37] Ghantasala Sangeetha Kalasala college in Hyderabad and Vizag offers six-month and one-year diploma courses on Ghantasala's light music, songs and music.[38] Ghantasala Yuva kalakendram offers semester based courses specially for children and youth.SivaNandiAwardRecipient Ghantasala Yuva Kalakendram founder M.S.V.N.VamshikrishnaDevaraya conducts ghantasala musical workshops every year at tayagaraya gana sabha[39]

Personal life[edit | edit source]

Ghantasala Venkateswararao was married to Savitri and (Late) Sarala Devi. He had eight children: four daughters (Meera, Shyamala, Suguna, Shanthi) and four sons (Vijayakumar, Ravikumar, Shankarkumar, Ratnakumar). Shyamala, Suguna, Shanthi, Vijayakumar and Ratnakumar were born to Savtri and while Meera, Ravikumar and Shankar Kumar were born to Sarla Devi.

It is said that Ghantasala named his eldest son "Vijaya" Kumar after Vijaya Productions out of gratitude towards the organization that employed him as a permanent artiste. Sri Chakrapani, one of the producers of Vijaya Productions, presented Ghantasala with a purse with Rs. 25,000 realising his respect towards the organization. 10 years after his death, his youngest son Ratnakumar went on to become a popular dubbing artist.

Filmography[edit | edit source]

  • Tyagayya (1946)
  • Anarkali (1955)
  • Sri Venkateswara Mahatyam (1960)
  • Sathya harichndra (Kannada)

Playback singer and music director[edit | edit source]

Ghantasala composed Music for more than 110 films as stated by him, following is the list of 124 films for which he has composed Music. The list includes remakes and dubbed films. The date of release of the film is also given. The list includes Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi films besides Telugu films where he worked predominantly.

Playback singer[edit | edit source]

Besides pictures where he is Music Director, Ghantasala recorded songs as playback singer for the movies under popular composers –V Nagaiah, Ogirala RamachandraRao, Galipenchala Narasimha Rao, S Rajeswara Rao, Pendyala Nageswara Rao, Susarla Dakshina Murthy, CR Subburaman, Aswathama, P Suribabu, Adi Narayana Rao, Master Venu, T V Raju, R Sudharshanam, R Goverdhanam, M S Viswanathan, Ramamoorthy, K V Mahadevan, T Chalapathi Rao, S P Kodandapani, GK Venkatesh, TG Lingappa, Shankar, Ganesh, Vedha, and Shankar Jai Kishan, among others.

Private albums[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Akkineni Nageswara Rao interview". The Times of India. 15 January 2017. Retrieved 1 October 2022. And in came Ghantasala, who not only went on to become the voice of ANR melodies, but also one of the greatest singers Telugu cinema has seen.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Honouring a legend". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 11 February 2003. Archived from the original on 19 October 2003.
  3. ↑ K. Kumara Sekhar (14 February 1974) No Mere Singer. Indian Express.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 SriJa (4 December 2013). "Gana Gandharva Ghantasala". Andhra Wishesh. Wishesh Digital Media. Retrieved 19 November 2014.
  5. ↑ "Assorted Photographs". Ghantasala.info. 1 February 1970. Retrieved 30 December 2011.
  6. ↑ "Rich tributes paid to Ghantasala". Indian American. 14 December 2010. Archived from the original on 24 March 2012. Retrieved 30 December 2011.
  7. ↑ "kiranextras: Ghantasala statues across state". Kiranextras.blogspot.com. 5 December 2008. Retrieved 30 December 2011.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 "Ghantasala's statue to adorn Guntur". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 11 December 2005. Archived from the original on 12 December 2006.
  9. ↑ "Ghantasala music fest today". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 3 December 2010.
  10. ↑ "NATIONAL / ANDHRA PRADESH: Statue of Ghantasala unveiled". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 12 February 2012. Retrieved 17 February 2012.
  11. ↑ Andhra Pradesh / Guntur News : Tributes paid to Ghantasala. The Hindu (19 February 2011)
  12. ↑ Stage set for Ghantasala fete. The Hindu (30 September 2012).
  13. ↑ Rich tributes paid to Ghantasala. The Hindu (12 February 2015). Retrieved on 15 November 2018.
  14. ↑ "Tribute to Ghantasala". The Hindu. 28 September 2018.
  15. ↑ [1]. Ghantasala Biography from Youtube.com. Retrieved on 2026-01-09.
  16. ↑ V.A.K Ranga Rao. Ghantasala (1922–1974). From the book Mee Ghantasala.
  17. ↑ P Satyanarayana Rao (26 April 2010) This jailhouse has a rich past. Deccan Herald
  18. ↑ Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao. IMDb
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 Homage to Ghantasala Archived 17 December 2018 at the Wayback Machine. Merinews.com (4 December 2009).
  20. ↑ "Ghantasala Biography". 8PM News. 11 February 2011. Archived from the original on 12 December 2013.
  21. ↑ "మహమ్మద్ రఫీని విస్మయానికి గురి చేసిన ఘంటసాల పాట". 4 December 2013.
  22. ↑ Ghantasala ‘Music’ Story. Thehansindia.com (9 February 2014). Retrieved on 15 November 2018.
  23. ↑ "The melody imperial". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 12 March 2003.
  24. ↑ "Ghantasala Biography". 8pmnews.com. 11 February 2011. Archived from the original on 26 May 2011. Retrieved 30 December 2011.
  25. ↑ "Ghantasala's Biographical article ChimataMusic.com... A One-Stop for Melodious Telugu Songs!!!". Chimatamusic.com. Archived from the original on 1 April 2012. Retrieved 30 December 2011.
  26. ↑ gaana gaMdharvuDu. Ghantasala.info
  27. ↑ ఈమాట » ఘంటసాల–బాలసుబ్రహ్మణ్యం Archived 21 July 2019 at the Wayback Machine. Eemaata.com.
  28. ↑ "Ghantasala adorns stamps". The Times of India. 22 July 2012. Archived from the original on 13 June 2013.
  29. ↑ "After ANR, Ghantasala Gets This Honour". CineJosh. 12 October 2014.
  30. ↑ "అలరించిన శరత్ చంద్ర 'ఘంటసాల గాన విభావరి' ***అమెరికాలో ఘంటసాల పోస్టల్ స్టాంపు విడుదల చేసిన నాట్స్". Telugu Community News. Archived from the original on 29 November 2014. Retrieved 27 November 2014.
  31. ↑ "Ghantasala Melody King Award for 'Indian Idol' Sree Ramachandra". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 5 December 2010. Archived from the original on 9 December 2010.
  32. ↑ "Ghantasala Awards for Susheela, Nagoor Babu". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 4 December 2008. [dead link]
  33. ↑ "Ghantasala national award presented to Balu". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 15 April 2011. Archived from the original on 9 November 2012.
  34. ↑ "Padma Shri Awardees". india.gov.in. Archived from the original on 29 April 2012. Retrieved 1 March 2011.
  35. ↑ Assorted Photographs. Ghantasala.info.
  36. ↑ Aruna Chandaraju (2 May 2014) Melodies of an era – Tirupati. The Hindu. Retrieved on 15 November 2018.
  37. ↑ "A homecoming for the maestro". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 23 July 2007. Archived from the original on 16 November 2007.
  38. ↑ Thespian goes down memory lane. The Hindu (24 June 2012).
  39. ↑ [2]. vaartha(Fri,15 February 2019).

External links[edit | edit source]

Retrieved from "https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ghantasala_(musician)&oldid=471276"
Discover more